Artwork

Self-Portrait in the Polish National Costume

Self-Portrait in the Polish National Costume, by Marcello Bacciarelli, oil, 1781
Self-Portrait in the Polish National Costume, by Marcello Bacciarelli, oil, 1781

Self-Portrait in the Polish National Costume is an oil painting by Marcello Bacciarelli. It dates from 1781 and is held in the collection of the National Museum in Kraków.

About this work

Overview

Self-Portrait in the Polish National Costume is an oil-on-canvas painting created by Marcello Bacciarelli around 1781. The work is a representation of the artist in traditional Polish attire.

Subject & Meaning

The subject of the painting is the artist himself, depicted wearing a red beret, fur-trimmed coat, and white scarf. His serious expression and direct gaze convey dignity and formality.

Technique & Style

The painting features a muted brown background, allowing the subject's attire to be the focal point. Bacciarelli's use of oil paint captures the textures of the clothing, particularly the fur trim.

History & Provenance

Bacciarelli, an Italian-born painter, was active in Poland and the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth during the 18th century. The painting is now held in the collection of the National Museum in Kraków.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Marcello Bacciarelli

Artist

Marcello Bacciarelli

Marcello Bacciarelli (Italian pronunciation: ; 16 February 1731 – 5 January 1818) was an Italian-born painter of the late-baroque and Neoclassic periods active in Poland and the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth.